Man charged following racially-aggravated rape in Walsall
A man is due in court today charged with racially-aggravated rape in Walsall.
A man has been charged after a woman was raped in a racially-aggravated attack in Walsall.
The woman - who is in her 20s - was sexually assaulted in the Park Hall area on Saturday evening (25 Oct) by a man she did not know.
John Ashby, 32, from Stockland Green, who police have described as a white, British man, has been charged with rape. He is also accused of strangulation, racially-aggravated actual bodily harm, and robbery in connection with the same victim.
Ch Supt Phil Dolby, of Walsall Police, said: “We know the fear and concern this attack has caused in our communities.
“We continue to speak to people in the community to listen to and understand their concerns.
“Officers have visited faith establishments in Walsall and spoken with local leaders about women’s safety and what measures men can take to make women feel more comfortable.
“We need to continue to maintain those conversations and how we build on women’s safety in the community.”
Detective Superintendent Ronan Tyrer from our Public Protection Unit said: "The woman who was the subject of the attack has been informed of the charging decision this evening.
"She is continuing to be supported by our specially-trained officers."
Ashby is due at Birmingham Magistrates Court today.